Category: Consumer Behavior

U.S. Economy Grew Faster Than Expected in Second Quarter, at 2.8% Rate

The report on gross domestic product offered new evidence of the economy’s resilience in the face of high interest rates.
For Years, TikTok Told Us What to Buy. Now the Trend Is to Consume Less.

The trend of “underconsumption core” romanticizes buying and using only what you need. Yes, being normal is now trending. Experts say it’s a response to a period of economic hardship.
China’s Economy Slows as Housing Troubles Squeeze Spending

After a strong start to the year, spending has weakened as a real estate downturn weighs on consumers and companies. Communist Party leaders are meeting this week to discuss what to do about it.
Have Potato Chips Reached Peak Price?

PepsiCo reports in its earnings that people are buying fewer salty snacks from its Frito-Lay brands. It’s not the only food company that is seeking to lure back consumers stung by high prices.
Elon Musk’s Politics May Be Pushing Some Buyers Away From Tesla

The Tesla chief executive’s polarizing statements have alienated some potential customers and may be partly responsible for a recent slump in sales.
China Dangled Rebates to Lure People to Spend. It’s Not Enough.

China’s leaders vowed to kick-start spending by offering subsidies for households to buy cars and appliances. But many consumers aren’t biting.
Walgreens Plans ‘Significant’ Store Closures, Citing Weak Consumer Spending

The pharmacy giant told investors that shaky consumer spending was affecting its retail operations. But some said the company’s strategy was also to blame.
China’s Lust for Durian Is Creating Fortunes in Southeast Asia

Demand for the fruit, known for its rich taste and intense smell, has reshaped parts of Southeast Asia, where it has long been a staple.
Fed Is in No Rush to Cut Rates as Economy Holds Up

Federal Reserve officials are expected to leave interest rates unchanged at their meeting this week. They will also release a fresh set of economic projections.
What Retail Apocalypse? Shopping Centers Are Making a Comeback.

Vacancy is the lowest it has been in two decades, at 5.4 percent, according to a recent report. The properties are thriving even as retailers like Macy’s and Express shutter many stores.
Price Pendulum Swings Back to Discounts, Within Limits

The pandemic shopping boom led many retailers to widen profit margins by charging more. Now value is the watchword as consumers grow choosier.
PCE Inflation, the Fed’s Preferred Gauge, Remained Flat in April

The Federal Reserve has been waiting for firmer evidence that rapid price increases are behind it.